What is a Passive House? It’s a “best in class” energy efficient house or building, as certified by the Passive House standard. This type of building uses significantly less energy for heating, which saves not only money but also reduces one’s carbon footprint. By upgrading the walls and windows for maximum thickness, insulation, and airtightness, you end up with a thermos-like building that retains its heat. Advanced ventilation systems are put in place for upgraded indoor air quality and recovery of ventilated heat via a heat exchanger. The heating system can often be reduced to a minimal size as the heating demand is significantly smaller.